Saints hurting at linebacker

NEW ORLEANS (WAFB) -

The New Orleans Saints have been hampered by injuries in their linebacker corps.

Chris Chamberlain is out for the season after tearing his ACL in Friday's loss against the Jaguars. David Hawthorne underwent surgery on his left knee to repair his meniscus, and could be out through game one of the regular season.

Curtis Lofton is dealing with a high ankle sprain that he suffered early in that game, which will keep him sidelined for the rest of the preseason. But Lofton said he would play if this was week one.

The Saints have since added depth at that position by acquiring Barrett Ruud in a trade from Seattle. Saints interim head coach Joe Vitt feels he is a guy that has played on some top defenses in the league and can rely on him to make plays for their defense.

The Saints will also rely on linebackers Jonathan Casillas, Scott Shanle and Roman Humber. Humber will not be able to help early on as he is suspended for the first three games for violated the league's substance abuse policy.

Running back Darren Sproles returned to practice after missing more than a week and defensive end Turk McBride returned after being out since the first preseason opener.